China Golf Association (CGA) is hoping China can soon produce its own Tiger Woods through a special training program, which was launched over the weekend.

A total of 32 junior Chinese golfers and coaches took part in the clinic to receive professional training from two instructors from the world-renowned David Leadbetter Golf Academy.

The CGA project, which is co-sponsored by the HSBC Group, aims at nurturing local golfing talents.

Apart from the goal of increasing professional skills in China, the association hopes the tour will attract more people to play golf.

"I hope golf won't be a noble game any more," said Wang Liwei, vice director of China's multi-ball games administrative centre. "Everyone should have a chance to play golf."

Wang said the entry to the tour is open for all people including the disabled players.

Launched in Sheshan, Shanghai on August 31, HSBC Future Champions Tour will move to another three cities Chengdu, Shenzhen and Shanghai after the Beijing stop.

The most talented participants will join the Grand Final to be held in Sheshan, Shanghai on November 13, right after the HSBC Champions where many of the world's best golfers including Tiger Woods.

Other stars joining Woods are world No 2 Jim Furyk, world No 5 Retief Goosen, defending champion David Howell and China's No 1 Zhang Lianwei.

(China Daily September 26, 2006)